Donations received by Strathroy Hospital Foundation have funded new patient care equipment, technology, renovations and building expansion. This includes things like the CT scanner and Ambulatory/Emergency Care Department expansion. Over the Foundation’s 20 year history,$20 million has been raised for the hospital – that is our job!

It is the job of the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, through the Local Health Integration Network to provide funding for hospital operational costs including salaries, supplies, drugs and other daily expenses. This year, base funding from the SW LHINincreased by just over 2%. Unfortunately, this does not keep up with increasing costs, which in some cases are up 7-8%.

I would like to know why base funding for SMGH was not increased. I urge everyone to mail Dalton McGuinty, (copying Maria Van Bommel) to ask this question. Why didn’t they provide the hospital enough funding to cover the rate of inflation? Isn’t this why we all pay taxes??

SMGH Foundation feels it is most important to step forward and help the hospital in this time of transformation. We are now transferring more than $1 Million annually to SMGH and setting a new program in place to help even more in the future.

Earlier this year, as required by the SW LHIN we introduced paid parking as one measure to help generate funds. In fact, we have already begun to transfer some of the funds to the hospital. No one wants to pay for parking – and I understand that. But by paying for parking, we are all financially helping SMGH. In 2009, the Foundation will introduce a new TV rental system that will offer better service for patients and help us to raise more money.

These are just a few examples of fundraising and revenue generation efforts. The Foundation is lucky to have great support from business leaders, community groups and individuals. This is especially appreciated during times of economic instability.

I hope everyone will continue to help us raise more money to sustain exceptional patient care that is provided by our physicians, nurses and staff at Strathroy Hospital.